Ten Simple Pleasures

1. The fabulous winter we have been having. There has been so much snow that it feels like an old-fashioned winter, which I personally find refreshing after all the half-hearted winters we've had over the past several years. I have really enjoyed all the different kinds of snow we've had; wet and heavy, sparkly shards, fluffy and light, gentle, harsh. And to see it hanging on every evergreen branch at our farm is like living a postcard.

2. The fact the days are getting longer.

3. Sugar season is just around the corner, and I can't wait to make maple syrup in a forest that belongs to me!

4. Watching Toast chase the squirrels. Don't tell my dog I said this, but they are definitely on to the fact that Toast is really just a peach marshmallow.

5. Feeling more creative. I've been making a conscious effort to spend less time on my phone, and more time journaling, drawing, knitting, reading books etc. With this, I find myself feeling more inspired, and more energetic.

6. I'm excited about my birthday. I love my birthday. I love planning what I'm going to do with my day, if I'll invite people over or go out and do something. I love having people text me or sing to me, I love presents and dressing up and good food. I enjoy being healthy and feeling alive and full of energy, and I count every moment I feel well and happy as a huge blessing. My birthday marks the fact that I have survived thirty-one years of life, alot which was quite challenging, due to being so sick and depressed through most of it. A birthday then may have marked the fact that I was still fighting and still here. Now, I feel like it is a good time to thank God and reflect on the beautiful blessing of good health and a sound mind. I love birthdays.

7. The sound of Gary's laugh. It's one of the best sounds, I love it.

8. A good fire in the fireplace. No heat penetrates the chilled marrow of your bones quite like that of a good blaze in the fireplace.

9. Hugs. Hugging my mom and dad makes me feel happy, hugging my husband makes my whole body relax and feel safe, hugging my scruffy, fluffy dog makes me feel cozy, and, well, kind of fluffy! Hugs are great.

10. Going out for tea with Gary. Sometimes we chat the whole time, sometimes we just sit together, but being out for tea with Gary is one of my greatest pleasures.

    
    

    I hope you've been having a lovely winter <3